Lindsay - from Co2BL

I really want to knock a star off for the end because I hated it but to be perfectly honest, this book was amazing. I couldn't put it down.

I'm seriously addicted to mafia romances. There's just something about the guys that strikes a chord with me. Maybe it's their combination of being alpha males and going for revenge on the bad guys that threaten or hurt their women. But either way, from page one, Alex was perfect. I loved every moment of him.

Olivia aka Lou aka Lou Lou aka Livi....well...I had more issue with her. I liked her and felt for her in what she'd been through and survived but there were many times that I also thought the current day Livi was TSTL. I just didn't get her. In theory, I agree with her that she needed to be smart. But the thing was, she wasn't smart. The only time she was smart was when she contacted Alex when she was in trouble. But once he started helping her, she started working against him and acting stupid. He life was in danger and she totally disregarded that and made bad decisions that put other people, as well as herself in even more danger. She didn't stop to discuss things with Alex, she just went off half-cocked and made assumptions. So for that, I really hated her.

I loved the flashbacks that were in this book. They provided history as well as establishing the connection between Livi and Alex. I loved seeing how they fell for each other and how things fell apart. But I have to admit, even before the flashbacks started, I could feel the connection with just their first meeting in the book.

I really hate that this book had a cliffhanger because I'm dying to know what happens next. I need to know what really happened and what's going on with Alex, because there's definitely more to the story. And I need to know that Alex is going to get his HEA with me Livi.

I can't thank the author enough for an advanced copy of this book. I loved (almost) every moment of it and can't wait to find out what happens next.

I found this book to be extremely enjoyable! 

Even though I've been blogging about books for almost two years, I have to admit that my posts don't go beyond reviews, promos and cover reveals. I don't typically talk about other book related items. But this book made me want to. The premise of the book was that a book blogger was chosen to be the exclusive reporter/blogger about the latest book turned movie. She got complete access to the set, actors and such. And she got to blog about the making of the movie. And that got me to thinking about what being in that position would be like, and what book I would want to cover and what actor I would want to play the lead roll. It also made it really clear that I had no idea what book I would choose or what actor. But I loved that this book made me stop and think about that. (And just an FYI, I would love it if I got chosen to blog about a book being made into a movie!)

So I loved Farrow's love and enthusiasm for books and blogging. She was like an instant bff. I also loved the friendship that developed between Kasen and Farrow. I'll admit that I wish there had book a little more of that. I'm not unhappy with the speed of their relationship, but I loved the friendship/flirtation that was going on so much that I wanted more. 

Typically I love dual POV books but for me, the dual POV detracted from the story. Kasen's personality was one way in the beginning, but when they went to visit his mother during a holiday and we got his POV for the first time, there was a change in him. It wasn't horrible but it was different from the guy we met in the beginning. 

Overall, I found this to be really enjoyable and would definitely read more from the author in the future. 

Blood of the Immortal by Ashley Jeffers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Have you ever finished a book couldn’t find adequate words to describe your reading experience? Because that's the position I find myself in.

This was a roller-coaster ride from start to finish. From the first chapter, it's action packed, but the second half is nonstop action. I didn't want to put it down. But at the same time I felt the need to post status updates about it, and that's rare for me. Normally I don't think about it or can't tear myself away from what I'm reading. But in this case, I just had to share my reactions as I read.

I do have to say that there were a lot of characters introduced in this book. None of them were throwaway characters, the all played a part in the story. But since this is book 1 in the series, I can see how the author was setting up the characters for future books.

My absolute favorite part of this book was Vic. He’s a secondary character that wasn’t introduced until the second half of the book, but he totally stole the show in every scene. I’m hoping that he’ll get his own book. :)

I don't have any big complaints about this book. Nothing ticked my irritable acts list. Well, there was one issue but it was totally a personal thing. There was a bad guy that was killed off in the book and the death was entirely too quick for me. After all the crap that the bad guy pulled, I wanted a drawn out and torturous death. But that's just me being blood thirsty. ;)

This book was well written and a really good debut novel. Ashley Jeffers definitely has talent. I can’t wait to see what new future books will bring.


________________________________


New teaser from the author:



Now live on Amazon!

http://www.amazon.com/Blood-Immortal-...

A SEAL's Mission by Rachel Kall
My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Book Description:

When renowned journalist Rowena Murphy uncovers the biggest story of her career, she was prepared to take some risks. But when she learns that more than her life is at stake, she doesn't know who to turn to...

After Navy SEAL Scott Ranger rescued investigative reporter Rowena Murphy in Afghanistan, he thought his mission was complete. But it’s six months later, and he still can't get her out of his head. The game changes when her life is threatened once again...

As they start to uncover just how deep the conspiracy runs in Washington and abroad, Scott vows to keep Rowena and her sources safe--even if that means temporarily dropping the story. But for Rowena putting her investigation on hold isn't an option.

Loyalties are tested and passions ignite as Rowena and Scott race to complete A SEAL's MISSION.

Satan's Property by Celia Loren
My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Book Description:

Betrayed by love, isolated and abused, sold as collateral to a rival MC…

Things were supposed to be different for Violet Avery. Her father was the president of the Devil’s Army Motorcycle Club, and she married the love of her life Rooster—one of the hottest bikers in the club.

When her father dies on a cartel run, Rooster suddenly turns into a ruthless monster, usurping the president’s chair, forcing the club into the drug trade, and condemning Violet to a life of misery and isolation.

As Rooster’s lust for power drives him deeper into madness, he offers Violet to a rival club, the Satan’s Sons MC—as collateral—to be their sexual slave and property until a deal goes through.

The Satan’s Sons live in abandoned insane asylum and are rumored to be sexual sadists, rapists, and ruthless murderers…One-Percenters who operate under no code of honor. Violet has no choice but to accept her fate as the property of the club.

Violet knows deep down that Rooster has no intention of the deal ever going through, he’ll leave her fate up to the Satan’s Sons. Her only hope lies in a sexy biker they call Drifter...

This is a STANDALONE Contemporary Romance Novel – No Cliff Hanger – Second book in the Dante’s Nine Motorcycle Club series – Content suitable for adults only, contains violence, and graphic sexual content.

Fall into Forever by Beth Hyland
My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Book Description:

A girl with a past she can't remember. A guy with a past he can't forget.

Ivy McAllister had it all. Perfect boyfriend. Perfect life. Perfect future. Or so they tell her. Because one night, on a dark country road, a fiery crash changed everything…and Ivy can’t remember what happened.

Now, two years later, at a new college far from home, she tries to regain control of her life, but her plans don’t include a tattooed, motorcycle-riding, indie music-obsessed guy with his own sorority girl fan club.

Jon Priestly is the hottest guy at Pacific State University. Just ask his groupies. But with a dark past he must keep hidden, he shuts himself off emotionally and trusts no one. That is…until he meets a broken girl with haunting green eyes and secrets of her own.

Ivy shouldn’t be attracted to Jon. They’re wrong for each other in every possible way. Yet as they spend time together, something about him—everything about him—feels so right.
But when threats from her past make her question what little she does remember, Ivy must decide whether to run again or trust the one person she can’t live without.

*** Due to mature situations, strong language and drug references, this is not intended for readers under 18. ***

He Belongs with Me by Sarah Darlington
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Book Description:
Two girls. One Leo.

Identical twins, Maggie and Clara Ryder, both grew up with Leo Maddox, billionaire playboy, apparent alcoholic, and heir to his grandfather's world-famous Maddox hotel empire. Their roles were cemented long ago: Maggie, as his best friend and Clara as his childhood nemesis.

But when a simple twist of fate changes everything and both girls start to fall for the lean, mean, ridiculously sexy and seemingly spoiled Leo... which girl will win his heart?

Throw in a little mischief, drama, and one smoking-hot bartender and lines are sure to blur. But one thing's for certain, neither good-girl Maggie nor rebellious Clara will be satisfied until they each figure out where they belong.

*NEW ADULT ROMANCE. Recommended for 17+ due to sexual situations and adult language.

Strength by Carrie Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book Description:

When college student Rena Collins finds herself nose-to-chest with the campus outcast, her rumor-laced notions are shattered. Handsome, considerate, and seemingly sane, Wallace Blake doesn’t look like he spends his nights alone, screaming and banging on the walls of his dorm room. Hell, he doesn’t look like he spends his nights alone, period.

Too curious for her own good, Rena vows to uncover the truth behind Wallace’s madman reputation--and how two seconds of contact had left her with bruises. Of course, there are a few setbacks along the way: guilt, admiration, feelings of the warm and fuzzy variety…

Not to mention the unwanted attention of Wallace's powerful, supernaturally-gifted family.

They’re a bloodline divided by opposing ideals, two soon-to-be warring factions that live in secret among us. When Rena ends up caught in their crossfire, Wallace has no choice but to save her by using his powers. Now they’re really in trouble. With war on the horizon and Rena’s life in the balance, he needs to put some distance between them. But Rena won’t let go. If fighting is what it takes to prove her own strength and keep Wallace in her life, then that’s what she’ll do--even if it means risking a whole lot more than her heart.

(Upper YA/New Adult)

Better Than Perfect by Kristina Mathews
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Book Description: 

The woman he left behind and the son he never knew are tougher opponents than any he’s met on the field. Pitcher Johnny “The Monk” Scottsdale has won awards, been named an All-star and has a perfect game to his credit. Known for his legendary control both on and off the field, his pristine public image makes him the ideal person to work with youth players in a preseason minicamp. Except the camp is run by the one woman he can’t forget…the woman who made him a “monk.” Alice Harrison’s three strikes include an unexpected pregnancy, a marriage of convenience and young widowhood. She once traded her dreams so Johnny could have a chance at making it to the Majors. Johnny comes back into her life just as she’s ready to resign as foundation director and pursue her own dreams of finally earning her teaching credential. Her plans may go on hold, though, depending on the reaction when she confesses she may have kept a major league secret from Johnny and her son. With the minutes ticking by until Johnny will leave for spring training, they’ll need to let go of the past and work together in order to win the game of love. CONTENT WARNING: Some strong language, consummated love scenes

Kaleidoscope by Kristen Ashley
My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Book Description: 

When old friends become new lovers...anything can happen.

Sexy, gifted, and loyal, PI Jacob Decker is a tall, cool drink of perfection who had Emmanuelle Holmes at "hello." His relationship with Emme's best friend kept them apart for years, but things have changed. Now that a case has brought him to Gnaw Bone, Colorado, the road is wide open for Emme and Deck to explore something hotter and deeper than Emme dreamed possible. So why is she sabotaging the best thing that's ever happened to her?

It isn't easy to catch Deck off guard, but Emme does just that when she walks back into his life after nine long years. The curvy brunette had her charms back in the day, but now she's a bona fide knockout . . . and she wants to rekindle their friendship. Deck, however, wants more. Emme's always been the one; she excites Deck's body and mind like no other woman can. But a dark chapter from Emme's past overshadows their future together. Now only Deck can help her turn the page-if she'll let him . . .

Down to Business by J.C. Alexander
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Book Description:

While everyone else heads off to college, small town girl, Autumn Malone, stays behind to help manage her family’s failing restaurant. Two years later, a scholarship at Adelphi University comes her way, and she can’t resist the chance to start a new life. The one thing that she isn’t planning on doing…is falling for irresistible Vinny Mazzola.

To outsiders, Hamptons born Vinny Mazzola has it all: good looks, money, and an esteemed reputation. While studying business at Adelphi, the last thing he expects to do is fall in love with awkward Autumn Malone who forces him to ask himself what is really important in life.

When the opportunity arises for Autumn to work at Vinny’s family-owned Italian restaurant, Mazzolas, it seems like a perfect way for her to get to know him better. That is until she meets his over protective mother and his conceited ex-girlfriend who both want nothing more than to get rid of her. Between frats, family, friends, and foes, when it comes down to business, will Vinny and Autumn have to sacrifice everything for a love they can’t live without?

The Fiery Heart by Richelle Mead
My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Book Description: 


In The Indigo Spell, Sydney was torn between the Alchemist way of life and what her heart and gut were telling her to do. And in one breathtaking moment that Richelle Mead fans will never forget, she made a decision that shocked even her. . . .

But the struggle isn't over for Sydney. As she navigates the aftermath of her life-changing decision, she still finds herself pulled in too many directions at once. Her sister Zoe has arrived, and while Sydney longs to grow closer to her, there's still so much she must keep secret. Working with Marcus has changed the way she views the Alchemists, and Sydney must tread a careful path as she harnesses her profound magical ability to undermine the way of life she was raised to defend. Consumed by passion and vengeance, Sydney struggles to keep her secret life under wraps as the threat of exposure—and re-education—looms larger than ever.

Pulses will race throughout this thrilling fourth installment in the New York Times bestselling Bloodlines series, where no secret is safe.

I cry foul!

I love reading, and I love ARCs because I love getting a preview before a bunch of reviews go up…but there’s also a downside…a dark side. It’s very hush hush and rarely talked about. (Ok, not really but go with me a moment). The dark side of ARCs is there is no warning of oncoming cliffs.

I'm starting to feel like all cliff hangers should come with this warning:

This book sounded awesome...

When Katherine “Kate” leaves for her freshmen year at college, a grounded and stable piece of her is missing. She pushes away the ghosts of her past, determined to start her college life single, carefree and distracted.

Throughout high school Kate was reserved and shy, with little experience. Now, on her own, with little holding her back, Kate is ready to branch out. She bonds with a tight knit group of friends and even starts casually dating. What starts out as innocent flirting on the tennis courts slowly turns into a friendship and eventually something more complex. Reed comes into her life giving her the distraction she craves more than anything; but is she ready to give her heart away so easily?

Things get complicated when Kate’s ex-boyfriend and first love continues to pursue her. Kyle deeply regrets breaking her heart when he left for college the year before and is now on a mission to reclaim her. Kyle’s persistence and relentlessness is nothing short of obsessive. He will stop at nothing to win her back and prove his love.

Kate finds herself torn between her past and the unknown of the future. Her determination to stay distracted may just be her downfall or the beginning of something new and wonderful.

But I found (for me) that there wasn't much of a friendship between Kate and Reed (guy on tennis courts). It was promised in the description, and while I was told that they were friends, but I only saw a few games between them and only a little flirting along with it.

I've never been one to complain about telling instead of showing (honestly, if I see it, it hasn't bothered me before), but this time, it did bother me. Example:

Once I get to the car Derek opens the back door for me and tells me that I look good. He also gives me a soft kiss on the cheek.

That might not seem like a big deal, but I would have rather seen him lean in to give the kiss instead of being told he did it.

My other issue with the book was Kyle. I hated him. No, I didn't hate him. I loathed him with the burning fires of h*ll. I seriously wanted to sentence him to

When Kate agreed to see him over her holiday break, I literally said

But, she didn't listen to me. And it didn't turn out well.

Another issue I had was the descriptions of some of the characters. They just didn't seem to fit.

my roommate, Quinn Danner. She is a petite brown haired mousy looking girl. She really is cute as a button. She definitely looks and sounds like she may have been captain of the cheerleading squad and Homecoming Queen.

I don't think many homecoming queens or cheerleaders that could be described as "mousy".

I, Katherine Rose Monroe, am tall and have a boyish figure, although I was blessed with a solid C cup.

Last time I checked, boyish figures didn't have C cups.

This book could have been really good. The relationship between Kate and Reed could have been great. I was happy with it once it happened, but I would have loved to see more build up and more of their friendship.

And it really sucks that the book ended in a cliffhanger.

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

I was excited to start Burn. I enjoyed Spark and couldn't wait to find out what happened to Valaney and Eric. But early into the book, I started having issues.

My first red flag was Eric pulling out a c*ck ring. That in and of itself wouldn't be a huge deal...if it wasn't completely out of left field. There was no talk of or even any indication of Eric liking to use sex toys in Spark. So for him to pull it out...on a trip to introduce Valaney to his family...was odd. It didn't sit right with me.

My next red flag that actually had me calling

After everything that Aiden had put Valaney through, and after her mom refused to believe her... her mom still had balls to come and tell Valaney that Aiden was sick...no, she wasn't going to admit that Aiden had done horrible things to Valaney, she came to tell her he had cancer. Then she had the nerve to come say that if Valaney didn't donate bone marrow, she was killing her brother. Um...

Um. Let me think about this for a second...No. Not gonna happen. Then, Velaney decides to be a good person and go through with it. I'm sorry, maybe I'm a bad person but if someone did to me what Aiden did to her, I wouldn't be going out of my way to donate ANYTHING to save them.

That leads me the Eric issues…Eric finally gets a POV and he’s got all this repressed drama that raises its ugly head when they visit his parents. During the visit there was a long of tension between Eric and one of his cousins. Apparently Eric lost his best friend right after they graduated from high school. And it was under suspicious circumstances…well…suspicious to me. Eric got into it with his cousin about what happened and he only got half the story. I kept waiting for something else to happen, and while more was revealed, it only explained half of the tension. I still say that there was something the cousin was keeping from Eric about his friend’s death. And unfortunately, I’ll never know what it was because that was never wrapped up.

Another big issue I had with this book (actually both books) is the lack of police presence in the stories. I wrote it off in the first one knowing that there was a second book and I figured that it would be addressed in this book. But it wasn’t. After Velaney was attacked in the first book, she was taken to the hospital to get checked out and the nurse mentioned giving the cops information about what happened and about the previous trauma Velaney had suffered at the hands of the same person. But that was the end of it. The police never talked to Velaney. They never interviewed her, never investigated the number of crimes committed by Aiden. And the clincher for me crying BS was near the end when Velaney’s dad shoots someone and the police never show up. Velaney leaves her parent’s house like nothing happened and was never interviewed by the police about what prompted her dad to shoot the guy. It just didn’t make sense!

I wanted to love this book…heck, I would have settled for liking this book. But I didn’t. And at one point, I didn’t think I would even be able to finish it. But after venting to my friend about it, I persevered and kept with it. Yes, things were wrapped up, but there were so many irritating useless dramatic scenes that I got frustrated with this book. There were times that I felt like the angst was manufactured just to stretch out the length of the book.

I don’t dispute that Brooke Cumberland has talent, she does. And for the overall story, stretching over the two books, I did enjoy it. But I had major issues with Burn and that put a damper on my enjoyment of it.

Even with my issues, I would be willing to read more from Brooke Cumberland in the future.